ANZAC DAY – 25 April – is always a big day for Australians and New Zealanders in London. For many of us, it’s a nice reminder of home and what it really means to be an Aussie or a Kiwi, whilst the rest of London goes about another busy day.

Since Christmas became The Festive Season, and Australia Day became Invasion Day/Bogan Day/Hottest 100 Day (depending on your tolerance of cultural cringe), commemorating one’s religious beliefs or sense of national pride is no longer as clearcut as it used to be.

Each year thousands of Aussie and Kiwi visitors make the journey to Gallipoli, Turkey, to reflect on the sacrifice of the Anzacs. To make the most of the Anzac Day experience at Gallipoli, it is important to come prepared.

The battle at Gallipoli is truly a unique tale — it’s a story of warring sides who became friends when the fighting ended. In total, 26,111 casualties resulted from Gallipoli, including 8709 deaths. Now, thousands of Aussies make the pilgrimage each year to commemorate Anzac Day.

The calmness and serenity of the cove is as deceptive today as it was to the ANZACs nearly a century ago. The blanket of mist, a gentle reminder of the great courage and sacrifice that once took place here. In total, 26,111 casualties resulted from Gallipoli, including 8709 deaths. It was also here that a nation was reborn.